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Do you have a dog?

Do you have a dog? Alex wants one badly, but my family didn't grow up with any dogs, so I've never really wanted one. But you know what is slowly changing my mind? Pinterest. I mean, all those sleeping puppies?! They're totally irresistible. And they make me envision having one. We honestly might end up getting a dog because of that website!

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My pup's name is Penny Bean. She is a two year old, 85 lb Bernese Mountain Dog. She's my first dog of this kind and has the most awesome temperament of any dog I have ever had. She loves kids, other dogs, other people, walks and smiling.

I don't have a dog YET. Mostly because I'm currently living abroad, but am moving back to the US in just over two weeks and after getting settled I can't wait to adopt a puppy. Not sure about names yet though!

I got a dog for Christmas when I was ten. I named her Phoebe, after the character from the show Friends, because she just exuded the same quirky nature. I also had a cat that I named Bob Dylan. It was fabulous to hear everyone call him by the full name.

You've got to do it. Dogs are so amazing and will become a member of your family right away! Their capacity to intuit emotions is incredible. My terrier literally hugs me and tries to lick away the tears if I cry. :)

Awww such cute pictures! And I totally know what you mean, Pinterest sucks you in with all those adorable puppies! My husband and I have a dog and she is just the greatest. Her name is Lola and she's a boxer/lab mix (or at least that's what they told us she was when adopted her from the Humane Society!) and she's just the most loving, comical thing. Whenever I visit my sister in NYC I always see so many people walking their dogs, you should probably just cave to the pressure and get one...you won't regret it :)

I like other people's dogs. I'm a cat person myself. The idea of owning a dog sort of scares me. They're a lot of responsibility that my life just doesn't allow for. I feel like it would almost be like having a kid.

i grew up always having a dog (sometimes 2!) so the house is way too quiet for me without one!

we're getting a bloodhound puppy the first week in july. we get weekly updates on him now, and i can't wait. we're naming him Henry! people names for animals crack me up (esp old man names). i named my cat, Carl. :)

My husband never had pets growing up and I grew up with cats and a dog. As soon as we got married, I rescued two cats from the local shelter. Three years later my husband still can't believe he went his whole childhood without having pets! Ha- and human names are the way to go! Our cats are Lewis and Clark. :)

I grew up with pet cats, not dogs, because my brother was horribly allergic. He outgrew the allergy as an adult and now all the members of my family have dogs! I absolutely LOVE having a dog. Our family has had great experiences because of the lovable, enthusiastic awesomeness that is DOG. :) Some tips:

1. Adopt/Rescue a dog instead of buying a purebred. 2. Avoid getting a puppy unless you are dedicated to training the heck out of it.3. Have a plan for caring for the dog when you travel - decide in advance if this is an inconvenience you can take on/afford.4. Choose a dog based on the breed traits/individual personality that works with your lifestyle. DON'T choose a dog based on its appearance.

My chocolate lab is named Webster, he is such a lug, so lazy, and so cuddly! A trick I was told to finding a lazy dog {rather than one that is super hyper}, is to lay the puppy on it's back along your forearm. If he wiggles and tries to get away then he is typically pretty lively, if he lays there with his legs and arms wide open {and webster had his tongue out :)} he will be more calm. A fun little trick when looking for your perfect puppy :)

My husband and I adopted a dog two years ago - his name is Onyx, because he's all black (but with two white paws!). I've been obsessed with dogs my whole life, but my husband was never really much of a dog person until we got ours. Now, he thinks dogs are the best animal ever and wants more of them. So I think maybe it's one of those things that you adjust to once you actually get a dog and realize just how fun and sweet and cute they are.

I love my Boston Terrier, his name is Porkchop! My husband just admitted this weekend to "rolling over" in letting me get the dog. He jokingly said he (the dog) cramps his style, which is true, no more on the fly adventures for us. And yes I agree that it's a gateway to what having children is like, but there are way fewer places that are accptable to bring your dog than your next of kin.

We have an English pointer named Elvis Costello Tickle (he was originally named after Elvis Presley, but when we adopted him we switched to Costello because he's English!). He's pretty much the greatest. I didn't think I was ready for a dog, despite growing up with dogs, but my husband convinced me otherwise and I'm glad he did.

You totally should get a dog, but I dont' recommend a pointer unless you plan on spending a LOT of time at the dog park, since you live in Manhattan. They are extremely high-energy dogs and they need a LOT of exercise. Ours will easily spend 2-3 hours running around the yard non-stop if it's nice out!

We have two pups- both small English Bulldogs named after foods- Coney and Biscuit. They are wonderful additions to our lives and I would highly recommend getting a dog! Can you even imagine the cuteness of seeing your baby cuddle up next to a puppy?!

Yep, I have a dog. Her name is Lola and is a cross between a poodle and a cavapoo, so is a small shaggy poodle dog. We never had dogs before we got Lola and I never thought I was a dog person, but Lola is part of the family now. However, they are a lot of work and I am not a fan of walking, so you have to weigh it up.

Get a dog! Do your research and choose a dog that will work for you. Go through all the strides to learn what makes dogs happy. What works and doesn't. Just like the French book, its all about the approach! You're awesome Jo!If you have time come on by my blog! PS: I work for the Microsoft Store and loved seeing that you spoke about the Nokia Lumia 900. I was telling my manager not too long before you did that how I would love to have you come in the store for an event in our theater room for like a autograph and picture opp! then you posted that Lumia 900 Windows Phone post and I was so excited! Maybe one day you can come in to our Bay Area store in Santa Clara! xoxox

I wasn't a dog person either. Not an anti-dog person, just not a dog have-er. But my husband loves dogs and, let's face it, he and a big, fluffy puppy have a lot in common. Hence, being a husband person has now made me a dog person.

Dogs are fantastic companions and are very loyal. They make great friends, especially if you've got kids! I've had a dogs all my life. Right now, we've got a schnauzer-poodle mix (it's actually called a Schnoodle haha)! He's 20 lbs, super affectionate and named Bozzley. He's "The Bozz" for short.

I didn't grow up with dogs either, but after moving to New York and seeing all the city dogs having so much fun, I decided to get a Boston Terrier. My boy Roger (so with you on human names - he's named after my grandpa!) is now seven years old and the funniest, sweetest, snorting-est dude ever. You guys should definitely get a dog - I know your readers would love to see the pics! :)

We have two dogs. Bacon, who is a Boston Bulldog and Waffles, who is a blue pitt bull. They are both huge babies. Dogs are awesome but just a warning, a puppy is just like having another baby. Tons of work. Worth it, yes. ;) I hope you guys get one, I bet your little man would love it!

We have a small black lab named Tuula. Our 1 year old daughter absolutely ADORES her. She follows her around panting and woofing...so sweet. The dog has a lot of personality and makes our family complete. I can't imagine not having one now that we do!

We;ve got a almost 8 yr old Aussie named Annie. She's just awesome. Honestly. And have you ever noticed how dogs sort of look like thier owners. Sort of like how when a couple has been married forever they start to resemble each other in looks and personality. Funny. You should totally get a dog. Toby will love it!

I have a black miniature poodle, his name is Jason and he is the best. He is so distractingly cute I have a hard time getting work done sometimes. Getting a dog was one of my best decisions, he is so super sweet.

i think you should think of getting a dog. you know what you all should do. you should plan a trip to denver, which i find is the mecca of dogs and their humans. i used to live in san francisco and then moved to denver, only to find that every person here owns a dog. you should come and browse all the dogs and their families to see if it's a fit. denver is the physical manifestation of pinterest (as the site relates to dogs and tattoos).

i used to have a wonderful dog named abby jean. i agree completely with your desire to give your dog a human name.

I grew up in a family with pet allergies, so we never had dogs or cats. We had goldfish and gerbils. :) I don't feel my childhood was any less rich or fulfilling, and actually it made playing with the neighbors' cats or my best friend's dog even more of a special treat. From a practical standpoint it kept our house cleaner, we never had to feel guilty about leaving a pet alone at home while everyone was at work as school, and it also meant our family could take lots of vacations without having to worry about petsitting or kennels. My husband and I both have dander allergies, so our two young children will also grow up in a house without pets. I have no guilty feelings about this - animals are wonderful things and we'll find other outlets by which to enjoy them!

While my dog Maxx (a puggle) is adorable and very sweet, he's also a lot of work. Plus, my house is covered in dog hair all the time. I think that you really need to be a dog person, otherwise it's just the idea of them that's really nice. We love him, and he's fun, but it's like having a perpetual 2 year old who can't speak. Greyhounds are supposed to be wonderful apartment dogs and are easy to adopt through rescues. Also, we would probably name our next dog Karl Marx and call him by his full name.

We have two boxer mutts and I can't imagine life without them. We named them Shiner (after the Texas-based beer) and Rory (because I loved Gilmore Girls). Dogs are a big commitment but they bring so much joy and love. Plus they are funny!

I have a kitty which suits me just fine as I love their independence. Dylan lets himself in and out when he pleased etc : ) my hubbie is dying for a dog as he grew up with loads. if you do get a pet don't forget to check out the shelters etc first - there are so many unwanted cats and dogs many of whom are family friendly...

Dogs are the best! You can take them on walks and hikes and to the beach and even if its just you and the dog, it feels like you're hanging out with a friend. I'm 24 and have never NOT had a dog. My first one was named Phoenix. The second I named Midnight because she was a black German Shepard. And last fall I adopted a border collie/catalouha cur mix from a shelter and named him Apollo. I think it would be funny if someone named their dog Achilles so that when you are walking him you can say "Achilles heel!" haha

We love love LOVE our dog, Jackie. He is just the best. If you end up with the right dog for you (I think size is important to consider, as well as shedding potential) they can just be the best thing in the world. They are the only creature that is genuinely, demonstrably excited to see you every time you come home (even if you've only been out to the mailbox)!

We have 3 rescue dogs (2 GSD and 1 boxer) called Jake, Benjy (or Benjamin when he's in trouble) and Lennox. Growing up I was used to my Mum rescuing Border Collies, so it seemed only natural for me to rescue my own dogs. One of the most rewarding things in life, second to having children!

I grew up on a farm and we had numerous dogs. We got a labrador puppy when I was 3 years old and we named him Sam. It was great to have animals as a child and dogs are the perfect companion. I always felt safe when the dogs were around. We also had Chip, Tilly, Barney, Max and Zac.

My husband and I don't have a dog (apartment won't allow them...), but I still count my parents' dog as mine. Jake is a 6 year old Labradoodle, and he's fantastic. My husband and I look forward to the day we can get a dog, as we both grew up with them, but a big part of our conversations (and my concerns) is making sure the dog is not left alone all day. This may mean we get two, or, like my parents do, send the pup to doggie day care. Jake still goes five days a week, despite the fact both my parents are retired! He LOVES his buddies there, actually sulks when he doesn't go, and he's a wonderfully socialized dog because of meeting his dog-pals early on in life. You won't regret getting a dog, it would be so wonderful for Toby, too!

Dogs are THE BEST! Nothing like coming home to someone who is always happy to see you. I have a Westie named Louie, who is almost 5 (and I got him when he was 3 months old). Check him out: http://www.flickr.com/photos/littleolivebranch/7155358826/in/photostream

We have 2 dachshunds - one long hair and one soft wire hair - named Zoe and Barnaby. Barnaby got his name because of his beard. He might be the most adorable dog ever. Before I had kids, my dogs were my kids. Now they're just two out of the 3. My son LOVES them. They're the perfect size for him to play with. http://zoeandbarnaby.blogspot.com

We have a dog, Louie, who is about 9 months old. I have always had dogs and loved it, but my husband didn't so we did a trial run first. It might be worth asking friends or a shelter (I'm not sure how that works in NYC) if you could dog-sit for the weekend and get a sense of what it's like, especially since you work from home. Having just gone through the puppy experience, I think of it as 'Baby Lite'...3am wake ups, crying it out, changing all of your routines etc. It's completely worth it, but you guys might like to give it a test run (or consider adopting an older dog). Puppies are adorable and crazy destructive, but oddly worth it! Good luck!

We have two terribly fun Boxers named Rowdy and Isabel (Izzy for short). BUT, we also have two fenced in acres for them to run and play in. I would never consider getting a dog if I lived in an apartment. Not even a small one. Hardly seems like a good life for a dog to be so confined. BUT, each to their own.

I have a wonderful dog named Billy. We took him in as a foster dog and decided to adopt him after less than a day! I highly suggest fostering, you can see if the dog is the right one for your family and if not, you just take care of him/her until the right family comes along. We also got Billy as a four year old which was great because he was already trained! He's the mellowest, sweetest little guy. Puppies are super cute but adult dogs are exactly who they will always be so there are no surprises! Our friends picked out a sleepy and mellow boston terrier puppy who grew up into the most hyperactive and territorial adult dog! Mixed breeds are also great. They're unique and have less health problems than pure breds.

We have a miniature dachshund that looks very similar to the one pictured. Her name is Heidi and to say we are obsessed is an understatement. I don't remember what life was like without a puppy. Dogs add so much joy.

We know someone who has a dog named Kevin, and it makes me laugh so hard.

We have a mut named Dakota. She's about 2.5 years old and very much our dearest companion. Good luck with the decisionmaking process on getting one! Dogs are like kids --- people have endless opinions about them :)

Ah! Those puppies are too cute! We have a bulldog named Chowder, and she's great. I think every kid should have a pet growing up. When I was little, we always had dogs and they were great playmates. It also helped teach my sister and I responsibility, as we had to help with the feeding, walking, etc.

I have a dog - he's a poodle and his name is Rusty... the best dog ever. He is always so happy to see us and he has the best ever personality. They are so fun to have around - I would highly recommend getting a dog :)

I grew up with dogs and was never a big dog person until my husband and I got one - now I'm obsessed we have a 6 pd. Miniature Pinscher named Trinket and she is my everything! Dogs just provide so much love and happiness. If you are on the go often, I might suggest a small dog that is easy to take with you :)

I always always always wanted a dog, but we never had one growing up. In April I used an unexpected bonus check to buy my first pup. She's a saucy, spunky French bulldog named May (short for Mayhem). The last month or so has felt a bit like suddenly having a baby with no maternity leave, but it's totally worth it. Early mornings, middle of the night wake-ups, poop on the floor, and all ...

We've been pondering getting a dog - the hubby had one growing up and I didn't. I waver on the issue. Dogs & puppies are so much work and I often think about what to do with them when we travel (and we travel fairly often.)

I have a cocker spaniel named Clotilde, which is a traditional Cajun French family name. I love my dog! She is so much fun to play with and they are so easy to integrate into your social life. I love taking her to the dog park and dog friendly bars and restaurants.

Yes, I have 2! :) One is a lhasa apso-poodle - I named her Lucy after Lucille Ball {I was obsessed with I Love Lucy, and still am). My husband named our border-collie/lab 'Tacoma' after his truck. Hahahaha

I definitely recommend that you guys get a dog. They really bring so much love into your life and love you unconditionally.

I wasn't a dog or cat person until I laid eyes on my fluff pup! His name is Salvador Jackson and he's a spoiled-rotten over weight Pomeranian whose hair balls drive me insane....but he's cute! He is all over my blog...like literally has taken over it - should probably just rename it The Salvie Show :)

We had an Irish setter and a black lab growing up, and they were the nicest dogs in the world. But I grew up on a farm, so they were outside dogs; I could not handle the work of having a dog in the city.

I had a friend once who named her cat Janet. And, honestly, it just made me annoyed. :/

Those pictures are too cute! We have two awesome rescue dogs (Ladybug and Louie) and a 20 month old son and live in a teeny house (probably about the size of your apartment. We LOVE our dogs, but they are a lot of work. Since you're in an apartment, you can expect to walk your pup 3x a day. It does teach the little ones good responsibility (mine helps feed and points out poop to clean up in the yard!) and my son loves his dogs so much. Just be very careful to pick the right dog, you may even consider fostering. It's very exciting, good luck with this exciting adventure!

You would love having a dog, but be warned...It's just like having another child... Lots of work... Dogs have to have company and something to do. They love you so much though and are so cute. You'll be surprised by how much you love them back, so you won't want to leave them... We've had Saucy (a doxie), E. F. Hutton (Effie, a doberman,the best and smartest dog ever) and Freckles (an ornery beagle), and now we have two granddogs, Violet (a Boston terrier, the most loving little girl) and Lily (a mix from a shelter, a really good dog.)

I always grew up with dogs in my life, so when I moved out from home I got a dog not too long after. Now, I have 2 and while it makes traveling a lot harder, it's worth it. Their names are Olive and Rootie (short for Rootbeer!). They're like night and day, and add a lot to our little family.

I have a cat. I am not sure that I'd ever get a dog. It's a LOT of work.

I'd only get a big dog if I had the space for it. I think it's kinda cruel to keep a dog in a small apartment (like I live in). Also, my guy and I both work 9-5 so the dog would be home alone all day. Ok for a cat, not a dog. I'd also never want to walk it in the winter! Brr.

I love my cat... I get the cuddle perks (and he plays fetch - his breed is very dog-like) but a fraction of the work :)

I have a dog and I couldn't live without! They are really a joy in life.My dog is named Wodka by the way. No, I'm not an alcoholic, we just got a tradition for naming our pets after drinks: our cats are named Pinot and Grappa.

We are looking at dogs now. My daughter will be five in a few months and she is obsessed with dogs and has been since she was one. Our baby is now a year old, so we think this is the summer. We’re trying to determine the best breed now. We’re thinking of a pug named Iris.

We have an apricot toy poodle named Wicket, because when she rolls on her back for tummy rubs, she looks like an Ewok.

If you're going to pick a human name, pick a name that isn't likely to be used today. Up the block from us is a darling girl named Stella, and around the corner is a tiny dog named Stella. Ditto Sophie: that's the name of Baguette's best friend, and also the name of a former co-worker's miniature poodle.

Seriously, there was a plotline on Cougar Town about this. If you must pick a name, pick Aethelred or Ninian or something that has far more ties to the past than to the present.

We have two Yorkies: Angus, 3 pounds, 9 years old (his blog is: http://lifeofangusjames.blogspot.com/) & Edie, 5 pounds, 5 years old. Both are rescues. They are the sweetest dogs in the world. And they don't shed!

Note: I was looking for a great dane when I found Angus needed a home. :) I truly believe the dog chooses you.-Audrahttp://audrasally.blogspot.com

I have a little wirehaired terrier cross Finley (Finn) and he is great! Dogs are wonderful!If you do get a dog, please go to a local rescue group or shelter to look. Rescues are wonderful and there are so many out there in need. A good place to start is petfinder.com

You should totally get one - but a word to the wise...small dog, because you live in NYC, like less than 20 lbs full grown. And possibly no-shed??? Seriously, I had a dog that shedded and I couldn't handle it! Hair everywhere all the time! Our friends have a little yorkie-poo that is SURPRISINGLY manly looking, due to its black straight hair. It almost looks like a really tiny scottish terrier. too cute.

Bailey is a mix-cident of Dachshund/Shih-Tzu/Poodle and I couldn't love her more. I don't like to be all "look at my blog for pictures!" but seriously, look at my blog for pictures.

I think animals are great for kids, but don't do it unless you have TONS of time (and space and energy and patience) to give to a new puppy. It will absolutely stress you out to no end for what will feel like forever. There will be a honeymoon stage, but you will inevitably think to yourself "what the hell did we do" at some point. It will be worth it, but getting to that point will take lots of time. I agree with a previous commenter that dog-sitting is a great idea, as is adopting an older dog who already has good manners. There are so many senior dogs out there with so much love to give!

Keep in mind (I'm sure you can imagine) that a puppy is a HUGE commitment- I followed Penny around the house for months and months until she was housebroken and mostly not chewing everything in sight. I love her like a child, but the next dog I adopt will be older and mellower.

My college roommate's family had two adorable mixed-breed dogs that looked like lab puppies named Derek and Betty (I love human names for pets!) My boyfriend and I have two cats, Bisous and Gateau (Kisses and Cake) but we'd love a dog eventually when we can be available to take care of it! Cats are soooo much easier than dogs.

We have a Golden Retriever named Steve. Our last dog's name was Abe (RIP buddy). We would like to rescue a new dog from Larchmont Pet Rescue (great organization, by the way)...the kids have already named him Magic Johnson (no idea why...) Dogs rule.

Yes, I always had dogs in my house and they used to care for me and my sister. If any of us would cry, my dog would be the first to notice and try to "call" someone in the house. They are adorable and very very loyal creatures. I really love them, but as a grown up I can't have dogs, because I'm rarely at home and they suffer a lot with the lack of attention, plus they need more space to run and in a tiny rented apartment that's very hard. That's the reason why I've adopted a cat instead, but I consider myself as a dog person. It's very easy to become attach to their love.

We're finished having kids, but we know that in a few years, when we get that baby-makin' itch, it'll be REALLY hard to stick to the plan. So we've decided to wait until that moment - when we want another baby to dote on so badly that it hurts - to dive into the world of puppy parenting.

I grew up with dogs, have a relative who trains guide dogs, and I thought I was ready for a puppy. But my puppy threw up everywhere, she had two different diseases that both had a lot to do with pooping everywhere in close succession. She hated walking. I didn't know what we were doing wrong, both of us had experience with dogs, but it was worth it, because she grew up to be the most healthy, energetic, hilarious and loving dogs I've had. After all they put you through you'll still miss them every day. That's the worst part. Everything else, as stinky/sticky as it might be, is worth it.

We have a chocolate lab named Gus, after the chubby mouse in Cinderella. Growing up, we had an English pointer named Katie. I do think having a dog in the city would be difficult though. My dog is more demanding in terms of wanting to be let in/out than I ever expected. It would definitely be a life adjustment if I had to spend hours each day trekking the dog up and down a few flights of stairs. Good luck with your decision!

I have two dogs! Our first is Rocky, a 2 year old min pin who needed a home...we got him thru a friend of a friend. We only had Rocky for a couple of months when I was convinced he should have a buddy. Since Rocky is a small guy I figured the buddy should also be small. I really wanted to get a dog that needed a home, but my local SPCA never seemed to have small dogs, but always people clamouring for them. I did some research and found out that there is a large homeless dog population in LA, with a good number of them being small. Found a high kill shelter down there with a facebook page run by volunteers. They try and get really good pictures and do videos. Planned a road trip and told myself not to keep looking, we would adopt one that was available when we drove down. Of course I fell in love with a lil one named Pumpkin! She had been found on the streets with her sister, at probably four months, both were adopted, but Pumpkin was brought back. I kept hoping someone else would adopt her, but time kept passing. I decided to ask what was going on with her, and how long she had. A lovely volunteer with another rescue org replied me and said that if I was really serious about adopting she would help me. We decided to wait until Pumpkin's last day, in hopes that someone would adopt her...and no one did! This amazing lady pulled Pumpkin from the shelter and fostered her for me for three weeks until my boyfriend and I were able to drive down from Vancouver to LA. The kindness of strangers! I'm so thankful that we were able to get her. We have named her Annie and she really is the most lovely and adorable dog. We think she may be a Chihuahua/Italian Greyhound mix, but who knows? If you and Alex do get a dog, please look to a pound/shelter - so many highly adoptable, amazing dogs that never get a chance at a home!

there has always been at least 1 dog present in my family when I was growing up - at one point there were 3 at once! All of them have been vizslas, which is that breed in the photo you found on Pinterest (the one you linked in the "P.S." at the bottom of the post) They're the sweetest dogs, very intelligent - sometimes scary smart! they're very people-oriented. hate to be left alone and really consider themselves part of the family. They're sometimes called "velcro vizslas" cuz they follow their owner everywhere, haha.My parents' current V's are named Buzz & Sage (brother and sister actually! same parents, different litter) Hubby and I would love a dog some day, we're holding off on it though because we live in a condo and there's no backyard for the dog to run around in. So I think we will wait till we move into a house w/ a yard. In the meantime, my parents's dogs are keeping me happy! :) They live close by so i see them often.

I have a cocker spaniel named Beau. He's my best bud. I would advise against getting a dog just because puppies are cute though... I think a lot of people underestimate the work involved in raising a well-adjusted and socialised dog. It's definitely worth it, but dogs are more than a cute accessory, they need a lifelong commitment. If you have thought it through though, I can't overstate the joy a dog can bring into your life. Go for it!

When I first met my husband, his pit-mix rescue dog, Bella, made me fall even more in love with him. Their relationship was/is adorable. Total devotion!

My dog is a French Bulldog named Scrapple, after the Philadelphia-area breakfast meat. I wanted to find a cheeky way to name my pup after the city I love and where I grew up. He is my best little buddy. Such a clown. And instant happiness added to life.

My 1 year old black lab is literally my whole world, her name is Edith and she is super silly. I have a busy life but with Edith around giving me her cute little looks, it is easy to carve out some time to go play fetch in the park, or go out of town simply so she can run free in the mountains. Life is much simpler when it revolves around a dog, everything is lovely and fun :) I would definitely recommend getting a dog! Amber(p.s.- Edith is named after Edith Piaf, my favorite singer)

I have a black puggle named Claude. He is pretty much my four-legged son. Just to add flames to the fire, here's a photo of him wearing a bow tie on his birthday last year: http://www.cotewrites.com/blog/2011/07/dapper-birthday/

My dog is a mix of Westie and some kind of fight dog.She was abandoned in my front yard eight years ago at 45 days old, infested with fleas and worms, almost dead from starvation. Lana (spanish for wool, because she looked just like a lamb) has long, curly, white hair with one black spot on the right ear, dark eyes and nose and the cutest pink belly ever. She snores when she sleeps, steals hazelnuts, clementines and cheese sandwiches (my dinner!), loves to take mud baths, play hide and seek in the park and curl up whit me when I´m sad. She is amazing.

I never had pets growing up either, so I never wanted a dog... Then, my husband and I bought a house and he wanted one. Now we have a two year old beagle - named Humphrey "Bogy" Bogart :) - and I couldn't be more in love!

I have a dog named Caico and a cat named Charlie. Both were rescues. Actually, Caico is from the Turks and Caicos Islands (hence her name) and I brought her home from a trip I took. I can't imagine living my life without the 2 of them. You will be amazed at how much you enjoy having a pet around !!

My boyfriend and I live in Brooklyn and got a puppy from the North Shore Animal League http://www.animalleague.org/ out in Long Island in February. It was the best thing we've ever done together! The facility is great and there are so many puppies to choose from. Ours is a lab/border collie mix and his name is Darwin. We rented a zip car for the day on a Saturday and drove out to get him. He's so well behaved and we really can't recommend adopting enough.

I have never lived without a dog and I couldn't imagine my life without them. We have two . There names are Pete and Polo. Petfinder.com is a great site if you want to adopt a rescue. Definitely do your research. Toby will love having a pup around :)

we have a 17 month old vizsla puppy and her name is marlowe. we LOOOVE her (the amber-colored puppy in the link at the very bottom of your post is a Vizsla puppy, too). they are the best, so cuddly, so smart and really like a little person they are so astute but have TONS of energy so you have to be up for lots of walks, runs and playing. she is seriously the best though (i know everyone says this about their dogs though!) happy puppy hunting :)

Do it! We have a labradoodle named Sophie Thunder (cause she's a little bit lady and a little bit thunder) and she is amazing! I love her so much and feel lucky to have such a good dog. She is a good size for us (30 pounds), very little shedding, super smart and good natured. Loves kids! She requires frequent grooming but it is worth it for the low shedding! There is nothing like coming home from a hard day and having a dog be over the top excited to see you!

We had three dogs growing up. Lots of precious childhood memories. But again it was a house in the suburb by the beach. They were unleashed and they took walks whenever they wanted to. As a child I admired and enjoyed watching them running by the beach so freely. Now living in an apartment in the city, I often feel overcrowding myself. Projecting my feeling on them I just feel bad to cram them into limited space.

I grew up with dogs and I absolutely loved having a them as a child. As few years ago I was living in an teeny apartment in Chicago that was too small for a dog, so I decided to adopt my first cat. She really is the best - quiet, graceful, playful and sweet. You should definitely get a pet of some sort (you could even start off small by adopting a rabbit or a fish and working your way up).

Since I was born, my family has had two dogs, Cinder and Keisha . Cinder lived to be about 16 and Keisha is 8 now, but she's energetic as ever. My mom's family always had pets growing up. We agree that having a pet adds so much to our lives. I can't imagine not having a dog around. That unconditional love thing is pretty fantastic.

My family has a dog and his name is Rollie - he just turned one year. He's adorable and I was supposed to take him when I moved, but my dad has recently changed his mind. In the middle of the potty-training days, my dad told me I could move with him and JUST decided to go back on his promise now that Rollie's fully house-broken. And meanwhile, I'm heart-broken!

Oh, Joanna! Dogs are so, SO wonderful. I grew up with dogs and was without all throughout college. I just adopted my Edgar (an American Bulldog/Pitbull mix) a few months ago and I am in love. Having a dog around just makes you feel better. No matter how crappy of a day I'm having, when he comes over and curls up next to me (or on top of me! SUCH a cuddler) and lays his head in my lap, it makes the world feel less crazy. He's my baby.

One bit of advice I'd offer for getting your very first dog is to adopt. There are SO many great wonderful loving doggies out there with no one to love them back. We had pet store puppies, strays and adoptees growing up and every time with the adoptees you can just tell a difference. It's like they are more grateful and appreciative of you or something. I know it sounds crazy! Puppies are really tempting because they are SO cute, but bringing home a slightly older dog who has all the basics covered (potty training, some obedience, etc) really takes a lot of the burden off. But I'm sure whatever pooch you may or may not bring home will be a great fit. A huge responsibility, but SO worth it :)

Hi! I do have a Dog, her name is Mila, she is a Border Collie! and she is the cutest dog on earth! you should definitely have one! their love is inconditional! and they understand everything! even more than you could imagine!Kisses!Valentina

My dog growing up was named banshee. I loved her so much and haven't had much interest in getting a dog until the other day! i was talking with my hubby about getting a dog once we buy a house later on down the road. he wants to name him bowie or ziggy stardust! lol

Jo, It is a matter of time before you get a dog. just accept your fate. :) also, having a dog is a huge commitment. Imagine all the doctor's visit to get shots. you have to walk the dog at least 2 times a day. and yes you have to pick up their poop twice a day. size depends on body size. you have to feed them. you have to give them baths. everytime it rains and their paws get muddy you have to wash them. you have to vacuum more because of fur. you have to cut their nails. you have to give them heartworm and flea meds every 30 days. if you get a puppy, they will absolutely shit inside your house until you potty train them. and they will absolutely destroy a few prized possessions because that is what puppies do... there are more. and please do not BUY a puppy. you should adopt one. Imagine all the sad faces at the shelter waiting for their families to pick them up :( I adopted two from the shelter and they are so cute! If I could I would suck on their faces all day. yes, suck, I learned that sucking is more efficient than doing repetitions of pecks. save energy.

Please please please if you finally decide to get a dog dont buy it!!! Go to a near shelter and adopt!!I dont mean to tell you what to do but in the shelters are lots of needy dogs!!Not that the ones that are for sale doesnt need a home but that way we only help the explotation of female dogs that keep giving birth in horrible places just to sell her poor puppies :(

Yes, I know exactly how you feel! I didn't grow up with dogs either and my boyfriend finally convinced me to go for it. Now, I can't imagine my life without my pretty little Penny. She is just like the dog in the link you posted,a Hungarian Vizsla. Lovely dogs who love humans...and I hear are great with children. Toby would be in heaven getting his face licked constantly.Keep us posted on your decision!

We have a border collie named Buster. He came with that name when we adopted him. We thought about changing it to Rowdy but he seemed to respond to Buster so we stuck with it. He gets called Bus or Busbee more than Buster though.

I never had dogs growing up, so my husband and I's first puppy together was an eye opener. Definitely more difficult than our two cats. She's 2 year old now, a Golden Retriever/Australian Shepherd mix named Pepper. She's a good girl.

i've never had a dog either, but i recently decided it's something i want to try! so it's part of my two-year plan....own a dog. i'm going to get a west highland terrier and name it atticus. (name that literary reference....)

I know this is a selfish position to take, but, after working in a fantastic animal shelter I decided to get a puppy from a very reputable breeder. The neuroses and needs of an abandoned animal make them ideal second pets. For my first dog, I wanted to meet the doggy parents and know what I was in for. That said, there aren't guarantees - so find a great dog training facility.

Also, don't be tricked into thinking that a small apartment demands a small dog. A small apartment needs a relatively lazy dog! - and those come in all shapes and sizes.

Now that I have Arlo I cannot imagine a house without a dog. Every time I walk through the door, it is the best thing that has ever happened to him in his whole life. It's such a kick!

YES !! And she's amazing. She's a poodle mix named Siouxsie Sioux. She does all kinds of tricks, much to the delight of our baby daughter.

Some people talk about their dogs like they are children ... but my dog has never been my BABY, she's always been my BUDDY. She pals around with us everywhere, and offers a companionship that rivals any of my human relationships.

I was admittedly not really a dog person and didn't grow up with dogs, but once I started living on my own, I adopted my sweet, 2 year old, yellow lab named Stella. All of the inital training was done and she still feels like my baby. Lots of work, but completely rewarding! XOX, Charlotte

we have a wrinkly bulldog like your first picture! i was the same way-- my husband wanted a dog so badly, and i didn't have strong feeling since i hadn't grown up with any dogs. when we got kane, i loved him (he was an ADORABLE puppy)... but my love has grown even stronger three years later. i don't know what i would do without him.

I have a mutt named Charles Winston Rowland-Porter. He is the love of my life and the sweetest snuggle bug. Dogs bring so much joy and unconditional love, I couldn't imagine my life without him. If you do end up getting a dog, PLEASE adopt one. There are so many dogs that need loving homes!

We have a basset hound at my parents', he's name is Leopold, I have a chihuahua called Yoda, and my sister's shi-chi is currently living with us, her name is Bodza which is elderberry in Hungarian.We had like 10 dogs since I was born, so I have been surrounded by them my whole life. I think you should get a dog, it can be a great addition to a family.

Joanna - you must get a dog! My husband and I have a sweet 5 year old pug named Ruby. She is one of the greatest loves of our life! What's so great about a Bubby (nickname for Ruby and what we literally now call ALL dogs!) is that they love you unconditionally and never judge you. It is a very unique bond. Pugs all the way!

Dogs are a wonderful addition to any family and are instant playmates for children! I grew up with dogs all my life and now am the proud pup parent of Rory, a mini-poodle mix who looks like a lamb and acts like the Energizer Bunny!

My love of dogs inspired me to start PAWSH, an online magazine and daily blog dedicated to celebrating a life lived well with pets. It is meant to help new and experienced dog owners alike navigate pet parenthood.

Adding a dog to the family is an amazing experience, but being prepared and doing research before hand is very important. As I'm sure you know, too many dogs end up in shelters because people get them on a whim without thinking about everything a dog needs. So taking your time to think about it is lovely to ensure you're comfortable with the idea. But like I said, dogs are great!

Oh my goodness, the pugs! The dachshunds! No, I don't have a dog, only a crazy little cat. My mom has two Norwich terriers though, and they're fantastic! They're super cute; small and portable, yet hardy; and extremely happy, friendly and loyal. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a great family dog.

Here's a picture of a pretty cute little Norwich:http://pinterest.com/pin/234187249343419000/

We have a chocolate lab/pointer mix named Penny Lane. I was *about* to name her the very human name of Kathleen (can't you imagine how silly it'd be to open the back door and shout, "Kathleeeeeen!"), but she was definitely Penny once got to know her. And honestly, I don't know how people get by in life without a dog.

We have a dog... well, my husband has a dog. I've never really wanted a dog (or a pet, actually), but my husband is an veterinary student and absolutely loves animals. So our compromise was this: he could get a dog, provided that he was 100% responsible for it. I occasionally help out and watch the dog when he's on trips, but our dog is really his dog. It actually works surprisingly well!

Anyway, her name is Zwayna, which means "cute" in Moroccan Arabic. She's a 5 lb. Yorkshire Terrier with a quite a bit of attitude! But she can be really nice when she wants to be :-)

My little guy is Dexter (named after the show... I'm obsessed with it). He is a chihuahua shepherd mix (the poor mom was the chihuahua). I always joke that I shouldn't have children because I could never love a human as much as I love that dog. Hopefully I am joking :-) go to my blog to see a picture of this weird little mix. Lauren-Kane.blogspot.com

Oh I think every kid needs a dog! My advice though is to get something small enough that you can carry it if necessary. When my black lab was towards the end and had trouble walking up and down stairs, it broke my heart and back trying to help him. My sheltie is light enough that I can carry her if needed. And not to mention she is the SWEETEST little girl ever.

I have a little pomeranian named Gypsy (she was a rescue, and definitely wandered into our hearts :)) I'm like you- never had a dog while growing up. I always wanted one, but my parents never caved. I finally got my little fur-ball to dote on! Traveling is really the ONLY issue we have dealt with so far. I highly recommend it!

We have 2 pups, Ribby and Buster. I wouldn't trade them for the world. If you decide to get a dog, PLEASE adopt! You can find any type/breed/size/age on petfinder and there are so many amazing dogs urgently needing homes.